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Campus Compact Honors Montana Tech Student

Campus Compact has named 181 student leaders who have demonstrated an investment in finding solutions for challenges facing communities throughout the country as 2013 Newman Civic Fellows. Nominated by their college and university presidents, these students are making the most of their college experiences to better understand themselves, the root causes of social issues, and effective mechanisms for creating lasting change.

Montana Tech student Paul Hart was honored. Paul Hart, a veteran and non-traditional aged sophomore at Highlands College of Montana Tech majoring in Historic Preservation, is passionately dedicated to the preservation of some of Montana’s most valuable but fragile historic sites. For the past few years, Paul has participated (and continues to participate) in the preservation of Nevada City, one of Montana’s living history museums. Through his leadership, Highlands College’s Construction Technology students and Lineman Program students joined together with the Nevada City Living History Museum and the Montana Heritage Commission to install a photovoltaic solar power array and period-appropriate street lights at the Nevada City Living History Museum – thus literally and figuratively allowing 21st Century technology to shine a sustainable light on Montana’s historic past. The solar array is large enough to offset the museum’s entire electric bill. Paul evidences a collegial confidence and composure – whether speaking to a corporate board or working with tradesmen at historic sites. Paul’s quiet but productive life mission is engaging others to preserve our history in order to benefit our future.

“One of our strong values here at Montana Tech is providing our students as much ‘hands-on’ experience as possible,” said Dr. John M. Garic, Dean of Highlands College. “We are very proud of Paul for his hands-on community work. He is a true Oredigger.”

As these students tackle community challenges, they provide fresh energy and perspective, inspire and mobilize others, and develop their own skills and potential. Through service, research, and advocacy, Newman Civic Fellows are making the most of their college experiences to better understand themselves, the root causes of social issues, and effective mechanisms for creating lasting change.

“These students represent the next generation of public problem solvers and civic leaders. They serve as national examples of the role that higher education can—and does—play in building stronger communities,” notes Campus Compact President Maureen Curley.

Newman Civic Fellow awards are made in memory of Dr. Frank Newman, a founder of Campus Compact, who dedicated his life to creating systemic change through education reform. At the core of Dr. Newman’s leadership was a belief in the power of individuals to make a difference and in the power of connection with others. Frank Newman had a tremendous impact on American education and its role in the development of citizens who want to make a difference. This class of Newman Civic Fellows embodies this spirit and dedication.

The Newman Civic Fellows Awards are made possible through the generous support of the KPMG Foundation.